Natur&ëmwelt Campaign Highlights Importance of Connecting with Nature

In the latest in a series of articles about current conservation issues, experts at natur&ëmwelt, a leading conservation NGO in Luxembourg, shared information with Chronicle.lu about the "En Dag an der Natur" (a day in nature) campaign.

As part of this campaign, natur&ëmwelt experts delved into the relationship between nature and human health.

Natur&ëmwelt volunteer Mithila Unkule helped collect the relevant information from the NGO for this article.

Chronicle.lu: Please tell us about the "En Dag an der Natur" campaign and its relevance to human health.

Natur&ëmwelt: Certainly. The "En Dag an der Natur" campaign is a commendable initiative aimed at raising awareness about the importance of connecting with nature on a tangible level. By engaging in various outdoor activities, participants experience firsthand the benefits of spending time in nature. This experiential approach fosters a deeper appreciation for the natural world and underscores the crucial role that nature plays in promoting human health and well-being.

Chronicle.lu: Could you please give us some examples of the activities included in the campaign?

Natur&ëmwelt: Absolutely. The campaign runs all the way from June to August and offers a diverse range of activities designed to cater to people of all ages and interests. From guided nature walks and birdwatching excursions to outdoor yoga sessions and nature-themed art workshops, there's something for everyone to enjoy. These activities not only provide opportunities for physical exercise and relaxation but also encourage participants to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

Chronicle.lu: How do these activities contribute to the overall goal of the campaign?

Natur&ëmwelt: By participating in these activities, individuals gain a greater appreciation for the beauty and importance of nature and develop a deeper understanding of why it's essential to protect and preserve our natural environment. Hands-on experiences help participants recognise the profound impact that nature has on their health and well-being, inspiring them to become stewards of the environment and advocates for its conservation.

Chronicle.lu: It seems the "En Dag an der Natur" campaign is making a significant impact. Are there any activities in the campaign that stand out to you personally?

Natur&ëmwelt: One event that I find particularly noteworthy is the annual "Fest vun der Natur", scheduled to take place on 15 and 16 June. This celebration of nature offers a wide array of activities, including guided nature walks, educational workshops and interactive exhibits. It's a fantastic opportunity for people to come together, connect with nature and learn about the incredible biodiversity of Luxembourg.

Chronicle.lu: Shifting our focus a bit, why is spending time in nature so beneficial for our health?

Natur&ëmwelt: Nature has a remarkable ability to reduce stress, improve mood and boost overall well-being. When we immerse ourselves in natural environments, whether it's a forest, a park or a beach, we experience a sense of calm and tranquillity that is difficult to replicate in urban settings. This natural stress reduction has been linked to lower blood pressure, reduced levels of cortisol and improved mental clarity.

Chronicle.lu: How does nature help to reduce stress and improve mental health?

Natur&ëmwelt: Natural environments engage our senses in a way that promotes relaxation and mindfulness. The sights, sounds and smells of nature have a soothing effect on the mind, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, spending time outdoors encourages physical activity, which is known to have numerous mental health benefits, including the release of endorphins - our body's natural mood lifters.

Chronicle.lu: What about the physical health benefits of being in nature?

Natur&ëmwelt: Nature offers a wealth of opportunities for physical activity, whether it's hiking, cycling or simply walking in the park. Engaging in outdoor exercise not only improves cardiovascular health and strengthens muscles but also enhances immune function. Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments increases the activity of immune cells, which help protect the body against illness and infection.

Chronicle.lu: Before we conclude, are there any other insights you would like to share?

Natur&ëmwelt: Just that the connection between nature and human health is undeniable, and it's essential that we recognise and protect this relationship for the well-being of both ourselves and the planet. I encourage everyone to take advantage of opportunities to connect with nature, whether through organised campaigns like "En Dag an der Natur" or by simply spending more time outdoors in their daily lives.

For more information about the "En Dag an der Natur" campaign, visit the NGO's website at https://www.naturemwelt.lu/en-dag-an-der-natur-2024/.